What is moscato?

Moscato: A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Moscato is a family of grape varieties known for their sweet, aromatic wines. The name "Moscato" originates from the Italian word for "musk," referring to the grape's distinctive fragrance. These wines are typically low in alcohol and often feature delightful flavors of peach, apricot, orange blossom, and honeysuckle.

• Grape Varieties: The most common Moscato grape is Moscato Bianco (also known as Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains), considered the oldest and finest variety. Other variations include Moscato Giallo, Moscato d'Asti, and Moscato Rosa.

• Styles of Moscato: Moscato wines come in various styles, including:

  • Sparkling Moscato: Lightly fizzy, with a gentle sweetness. Asti Spumante is a well-known example.
  • Still Moscato: Less common, offering a delicate sweetness and aroma.
  • Moscato d'Asti: A slightly sparkling, sweet wine from the Asti region of Italy. It's known for its delicate bubbles and low alcohol content.
  • Pink Moscato: A recent innovation, typically made by blending Moscato with a small amount of red grape wine (often Merlot) for a pink hue and added fruity notes.

• Key Regions: While Moscato is grown worldwide, some key regions are particularly renowned for producing high-quality Moscato wines. These include:

  • Piedmont, Italy (especially for Asti and Moscato d'Asti)
  • Australia
  • California, USA

• Food Pairings: Moscato's sweetness and aromatic qualities make it an excellent pairing for:

  • Fresh fruit
  • Light desserts (such as fruit tarts or sponge cake)
  • Spicy Asian cuisine (the sweetness helps balance the heat)
  • Mild cheeses

• Serving: Moscato is best served chilled, typically between 40-50°F (4-10°C). This helps to enhance its refreshing character and aromatic profile.

Enjoying a glass of chilled Moscato is a delightful experience, perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying a moment of sweetness.